Life is Good

I was talking to Shelley yesterday, telling her how much I love school. I hope I didn't sound too crazy about it, but this semester (although only three weeks old) has been magical. I've stayed on top of all my homework, even the reading. I have never done this in my 17-year school career... ever. I think the difference is that I actually care, and I feel that all the information is pertinent to my life. I am desperately trying to master the information, strategies and techniques that they are giving us. My real teaching career is right around the corner, and although I am super excited, I am scared out of my wits!
Here are just a few points that are highlighted in my recent past:
I have two 9 month old nephews. How did that happen? They are just too cute for words, so I won't even try.
Corbin and I went to the World of Dance on Saturday, and it was really fun. I am going to be more culturally oriented this year. There is so much cool stuff going on at BYU, and so many talented people. I need to start taking advantage of it while I still have the chance.
Being a music cochair is totally awesome. I was super intimidated at first, but now that we have an actual committee, I'm just excited to start planning things. I got to sing on Sunday, and it went really well.
The summer is slowly turning into fall. In fact, today is the first day of autumn! Anyways, I think I will like wearing pants and not dying of heat stroke. But I know I will regret this when the crisp air turns into blistering cold. But for the moment I'm enjoying the nippy weather and the orange trees in the canyon.
I decorated my room today, and it turned out a little crazier than I had hoped. But at least I finally did something. Maybe I'll put a picture up sometime.

Department of Teacher Education Mission Statement

We believe that our most important responsibility as teacher educators is the growth and development of children and youth. We contribute to their development by preparing competent caring, and reflective teachers.

I just thought I'd let the world know what I was working towards. Plus we are supposed to memorize this, and I figured this might be a good start.

I was reading an assignment for my literacy class, and this great quote came up.
"Reflection is really a discussion with oneself."
I've been doing a lot of that lately, and I find that after I have a good, deep conversation with myself, I feel quite better. It's funny, it doesn't make the situation any better, but because my thoughts have been expressed in a semi-orderly fashion, I'm better able to examine them and make conclusions about what I should do or how I truly feel. This totally ties in with the Gospel, all that encouragement to write in journals and ponder and reflect. They are true principles, and I'm glad that I could tie the Gospel in with my academic studies. Thanks BYU!